Checking in on communication milestone markers is a simple way to understand how your child’s speech and language skills are developing over time. These markers offer helpful guidance on what children typically do at different ages—like using gestures, saying first words, or combining words into phrases. Every child grows at their own pace, but milestones can help you recognize strengths, notice when extra support may be helpful, and feel confident knowing when to seek guidance.

If you have concerns about your child’s development, exploring resources through the North Los Angeles County Regional Center can be a helpful next step. This local organization provides support for children and individuals with developmental disabilities, including evaluations, early intervention services (ages 0–3), and ongoing service coordination for families.

If you’re looking to learn more about The Hanen Centre, it’s a trusted, research-based approach that focuses on empowering parents to support their child’s communication during everyday interactions.

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The Hanen approach is family-centered, meaning you are your child’s most important communication partner. It emphasizes following your child’s lead, building on their interests, and turning everyday moments into meaningful opportunities for language growth—helping communication feel natural, fun, and consistent throughout the day.

If you have concerns about your child’s speech development, it can be helpful to learn more about childhood apraxia of speech (CAS)—a motor speech disorder that affects how the brain plans and coordinates the movements needed for speech. Children with CAS may have difficulty producing clear, consistent sounds or words, even when they know what they want to say. Exploring trusted resources can help you better understand the signs, what to look for, and when to seek a professional evaluation, so you feel informed and supported every step of the way.

First 5 California is a statewide program designed to support the healthy development of children from birth to age 5. Funded through Proposition 10, it provides families with access to resources related to early learning, speech and language development, health, nutrition, and parenting support.

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Through local county programs, First 5 connects families to services like developmental screenings, parent education, and early intervention supports—helping children build strong communication, learning, and social skills during the most important years of brain development.

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Exploring First 5 California is a great starting point if you’re looking for trusted, local resources to support your child’s growth and development.